How to Photograph a Watch You’re Selling

Learn the best angles and shots to take when photographing a watch.

If you would like to sell a watch to Diamond Estate, we usually will ask that you to send us a few photographs of your timepiece. Taking a good photograph of your watch can be tricky, but good photographs (including a clear one of the model number) will help us provide you with a more accurate appraisal and better preliminary cash offer.

In the following brief article, we’ll share with you a few techniques that you can use to take a good image of your valuable watch. However, don’t stress over the process too much. Most watches can be photographed with a smartphone using the angles outlined below.

How to Photograph the Watch Face

Try to hold your watch in a straight line facing the camera. Make sure that the entire face is in focus.

How to Photograph the Crown and Lugs

Both the crown (the part where you wind/set your watch) and the lugs should be in focus and clearly visible in this photo, as seen above.

How to Photograph the Watch Back

If the back of your watch contains engravings, logos, serial numbers, model numbers, or any other maker’s mark, these are all important pieces of information that help us appraise your timepiece.

How to Photograph the Watch Band (Back)

This angle is especially important if there is a logo (such as the Rolex crown) on the back of the clasp. Like the face view, hold the watch in a straight line facing the camera and try to get as much of the band in focus as possible.

How to Photograph the Watch Band Details

Any writing or logos that you see on the inside of the band or buckle are important. This helps us to authenticate the watch as well as better assess the condition of the clasp.

How to Photograph the Watch Band’s Slack

This is a very important photo, and one that is often taken incorrectly. As watches are worn, they build up grit/dirt/grime between the links and pins in the strap. This grit acts as a cutting compound as the watch continues to be worn, damaging those links and pins and resulting in a looser fit.

To accurately show the band’s slack, hold your watch by the case, and let the band hang with its own weight. A like-new metal watch band will stick out horizontally (like the photo on the left), while a well-worn band will droop dramatically (like the photo on the right).

How to Photograph the Warranty Card (Front)

Serial numbers, model numbers, and style numbers help us to authenticate and date your timepiece. The more information you provide, the more accurate your preliminary appraisal will be.

How to Photograph the Warranty Card (Back)

The date of purchase can also be helpful in valuing your timepiece. Make sure that the front and back of the warranty card is centered and in focus.

How to Photograph the Boxes and Paperwork

Any additional information (such as boxes and paperwork) may add value to your inquiry. If you have any extras – show them off! This can include additional links, faces, purchase receipts, and professional appraisals.

Control the Light When Photographing Your Watch

Even if you have all of the angles correct, a poor lighting environment can still ruin good photo. Your shiny treasure reflects up to 99% of the light that hits it directly, so you’ll need a way to light it indirectly, or diffuse the light. Natural lighting is always best. Remember to also turn off your camera flash as this will create an obtrusive glare.

And that’s it! As mentioned before, all photos can be shot on a simple smartphone or mobile device and emailed to us directly.

Are you thinking about selling a vintage Rolex timepiece? Get answers to some common questions that our clients have when planning to sell a used Rolex watch at the following link: How to Sell a Rolex.

About Diamond Estate

Diamond Estate Jewelry Buyers is a leading fine jewelry buyer and watch buyer serving customers throughout the US. We've built our business on core values of integrity, honesty, and superior customer service. Are you looking to sell diamonds, rings, watches, earrings or other fine jewelry? Get in touch to get your no-obligation offer.

Diamond Estate President and Founder Carl Blackburn was interviewed in 2009 by KUSI Television, along with the Better Business Bureau's Sheryl Bilbrey, as one of San Diego's trustworthy and reputable jewelry buyers.

Ten Years later, Diamond Estate still maintains its A+ standing with the Better Business Bureau, while helping sellers nationwide become better informed through the many videos, guides, and articles published on this website.